Government officials in Mysore district will have to pedal their way to offices on bicycles every Monday as per the orders issued by Mysore deputy commissioner P.S. Vastrad to all offices in the district.
“Inspired by the participation in a bicycle rally on World Environment Day and considering the increasing fuel rates, the number of vehicles on roads and their impact on the environment, we thought of promoting the use of bicycles among common citizens in Mysore. The concept was discussed at a meeting of district level officials on June 21. In the first phase, we are asking government officials to adopt the concept so that it creates awareness among the general public,” Mr Vastrad said.
Officials who cannot cycle their way to office, can walk or use public transport, but should not use vehicles—their own or the government’s— and there will be no excuse for being late, Mr Vastrad said.
Separate five to six-foot wide lanes are being planned for cyclists on city roads and Mysore city traffic police have been instructed to guide the cyclists and give priority to their safety on roads. KSRTC drivers have also been asked to give due regard to cyclists. Civic bodies and head of various offices have been requesed to create appropriate parking spaces for cyclists, Mr Vastrad added.
While government officials are expected to buy their own bicycles, in case of problems they will be helped with loans. A bike rental service is also on the anvil. “We are planning to hold meetings with the authorities concerned to introduce the concept of cycling in campuses of University of Mysore and colleges in the city, Mr Vastrad added.